I can honestly say that choosing to visit Brighton was one of my best holiday destination ideas. So, for those of you who have not been before, book a trip and find out for yourself. Although our holiday was short, visiting in the summer was helpful. Summer allowed us to enjoy the longer hours of sunlight. Also, we were lucky enough to have no rain and temps of 33.5°C. Our days started with early morning walks on the beach accompanied by a cappuccino from the local Cafe Nero. We spent the days shopping in the Lanes or joining in on one of the beach activities and cycled along the seafront. At night, ate in some of the lovely restaurants and watched the beautiful sunsets over the channel.
Where is Brighton?
You can find Brighton in the county of East Sussex, on England’s South Coast. It’s only an hour away from Central London by train, a 30 minute train from London Gatwick or just over an hour drive from Heathrow airport. But, I am sure that you have already “Googled mapped” your journey to see how long it would take you 😉.
Where to stay?
We chose to stay at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront. Yes, there were other amazing hotels to choose from but for us this hotel was perfectly located to explore Brighton. Brighton Pier is only a short walk, it was quick to access to the pebble beach and any shopping and food hauls is its doorstep.
What to do?
- The Beach and Seafront: Brighton’s beach is a classic British seaside experience, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, paddling, or building sandcastles. The Brighton Palace Pier is a must-visit, with its iconic arcade, amusement rides, and fish and chip shops. You can also take a boat trip or try your hand at water sports.
- The Lanes: This labyrinthine network of narrow streets is home to independent shops, cafes, bars, and galleries. It’s a great place to browse for unique gifts, vintage clothing, and local art. You’ll also find plenty of hidden pubs and secret courtyards to explore.
- Brighton Pier: Take a stroll on Brighton Pier, trying out savoring salty fish and chips while seagulls squawk overhead. Then, hop on the iconic Ferris wheel for a breathtaking spin, soaking in the panorama of Brighton’s bustling beach and endless ocean.
- Zip wire: If you’re looking for a sky-high dose of seaside thrills in Brighton, then look no further than the iconic beachfront zip wire. While soaring 30 meters above the sparkling sea, whizzing 300 meters along the golden sands, the salty wind whipping through your hair as you catch panoramic views of the Palace Pier. Plus, with a rooftop bar and gelateria waiting to soothe your post-zip jitters, it’s the perfect way to cap off a day of seaside adventures.
- The Volk’s Electric railway: Take a charming trip through time on the Volk’s Electric Railway, the world’s oldest operating electric railway, chugging along Brighton’s vibrant seafront since 1883.
- The Food Scene: Brighton has a thriving food scene with something for everyone. From traditional pubs to trendy cafes and international restaurants, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from. Also, don’t miss out on trying to find the best doughnut shop. There are plenty varieties to choose from.
Book your trip
These are just a few of the many great things about Brighton. And, with its beautiful beaches, quirky charm, and rich history, Brighton is a city that has something for everyone. So, I hope you get a chance to visit this lovely city so that you can experience it for yourself!
Here are some helpful maps:
Clink on the links below for downloadable PDF maps
“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.”
― Dalai Lama
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